Reflecting on 2015

2015 is finally coming to a close. It has been a year of adventures, challenges, blessings, and struggles. I’ve been tested in new things and overcame areas of difficulty. I’m thankful for it all.

Most bloggers spend December frantically writing, filming, editing for 25 days before Christmas, in what is known as Blogmas. I took a different approach. Instead of posting daily, I actually didn’t write much at all this month. I stepped back, spent time with friends and family, and reflected on this last year and the year to come. Here are some things I have learned:
1. Jesus is everything.
Plain and simple. I know that I am nothing, have nothing, and can do nothing apart from Him. I hope to understand and embrace this more and more every year. If you don’t know Jesus, reach out and ask. He’s the greatest thing that has ever happened to me.

2. Community is necessary.
As most of you know I don’t live in my home country. 2016 will actually mark my 10 years of expat life, living in a land that is not my own. Loneliness is the biggest difficulty for any expat. It can be hauntingly lonely yet because of it you learn to really appreciate those times of friendship and fellowship. Life is a beautiful struggle and I’m thankful for my wonderful community of friends who have become family. I have a strong church community and local expat community that make the holidays a little brighter when you are away from “home”.

3. Help is encouraged.
As someone who enjoys her independence I’ve come to realize that I can’t do everything on my own, and it’s alright. I often pride myself on how I can handle taking care of everything, but really, that’s not what life it about. Sometimes you need to ask for help and know people are placed around you for that purpose. I’m thankful that I have my husband who is my love and support through everything and know he is always there to lend a hand.

4. Change is healthy.
If we don’t experience change, we will stagnate. It can be scary to think about changing, whether it is external environment changes, or internal character changes, we all require change in our lives. It’s natural and healthy. When I reflect on the start of 2015 I can see major and minor areas of change, and I’m humbled and thankful. What areas do you want to experience change in 2016?

I am looking forward to seeing what changes God has in store for all of us in 2016.
Here’s to Jesus, Community, Help, and Change.